Amusment park yesterday for physics class

In summary, the conversation discusses the process of finding acceleration on a ride at an amusement park called the "hellevator." The acceleration can be determined by using equations related to time, speed, and height, and more information is needed to find the exact value.
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When to an amusment park yesterday for physics class. Went on a ride called the "hellevator" where you sit down and it shoots up a certain distance then let's you free fall. My question is if the acceleration upwards occurs in the first 5 meters how do you figure out that acceleration?
 
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  • #2
You are going to need more information to find the acceleration.

Given an acceleration of a m/s2, the speed after t seconds is v= at and the height is h= (1/2)at2.

If you know the time, T, taken to get to that first 5 meters, you could solve
5= (1/2)a(T2): a= 10/T2.

After that first time, T, you continue upwards under the influence of grativity:
you speed at time t will be v= -g(t-T)+ aT and height will be h= 5+aTt- (1/2)g(t-T)2.

At the maximum height, v= -g(t-T)+ aT= 0 so you can solve for t (in terms of T). If you know that maximum height (usually easier to measure than time), you could solve the second equation for a.
 
  • #3


To calculate the acceleration in the first 5 meters of the "hellevator" ride, you would need to use the equation a = (vf - vi)/t, where vf is the final velocity, vi is the initial velocity, and t is the time interval. In this case, the initial velocity is 0 because the ride starts from rest, and the final velocity can be calculated using the free fall equation vf = vi + at, where a is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2) and t is the time it takes for the ride to reach the top. Once you have the final velocity, you can plug it into the first equation to solve for the acceleration. Keep in mind that the acceleration will be negative since the ride is moving upwards, while gravity is pulling downwards. It is also important to note that this calculation assumes that the ride is moving at a constant acceleration, which may not be the case in reality. Other factors such as air resistance and mechanical limitations of the ride may affect the acceleration. Overall, understanding the physics behind amusement park rides can add a fun and educational element to the experience.
 

1. How is physics related to amusement parks?

Amusement parks are essentially giant physics experiments, as rides use principles of physics to create thrilling and safe experiences. For example, roller coasters use the laws of motion and gravity to create the twists, turns, and drops that riders experience.

2. What types of physics concepts can be observed at an amusement park?

Some common physics concepts that can be observed at amusement parks include acceleration, centripetal force, potential and kinetic energy, and conservation of momentum. These can be seen in various rides such as roller coasters, bumper cars, and swings.

3. How can amusement parks be used to teach physics?

Amusement parks can be used as real-life examples to demonstrate various physics principles in action. Teachers can use rides as visual aids and have students calculate the forces, energy, and other variables involved in each ride. This can make learning physics more engaging and relatable for students.

4. What safety measures are taken in amusement parks to ensure the laws of physics are properly applied?

Amusement parks have strict safety regulations in place to ensure that the laws of physics are properly applied and that rides are safe for riders. This includes regular maintenance and inspection of rides, as well as design features that prevent accidents, such as seat belts and harnesses.

5. Can visiting an amusement park help improve understanding of physics?

Yes, visiting an amusement park can provide a hands-on learning experience that can improve understanding of physics concepts. By seeing and experiencing these concepts in action, students can better grasp and retain the information. Plus, it's a fun and memorable way to learn!

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